Bathroom fans with light offer twofold benefits – first they improve air quality and remove unpleasant odors and second, they light up the room so you don’t have fumble around for an extra light switch. Plus, it saves you both time and costs, given that you just need to install one fixture in your bathroom space.
One of the biggest questions’ consumers ask is what type of bulb goes in a bathroom fab, and the answer depends on your needs ranging from traditional lightbulbs to energy efficient CFL bulbs.
Buying the best bathroom fan with light however can be a tricky task, given the myriad options available. But we’ve done the homework, and narrowed down on 10 best options. We’ve also included a handy bathroom light with fan buying guide to help you buy the right appliance for your needs.
10 Best Bathroom Fans with Light
1. Panasonic Whisperfit EZ Retrofit Fan
Slotting in at the #1 position on this list of best bathroom fan with light is none other than the Whisperfit EZ Retrofit, and for several reasons. For starters, it boasts a low-profile design, making it a perfect solution for anyone looking to easily and quickly add or replace an existing bathroom fan.
Further, the Whisperfit EZ Retrofit bathroom exhaust fan does nothing more than whisper at less than .3 cones. The Whisperfit EZ Retrofit bathroom light fan is ASHRAE 62.2 (State of California) compliant, and Energy Star Certified, so it uses far less energy than other similar products in its segment.
The Whisperfit EZ Retrofit exhaust fan boasts a 110 CFM airflow capacity, which can be turned down a few notches to 80 CFM on the fly with the included Pick-A-Flow Speed Selector located in the inside of the unit. The fan located inside the enclosure features 3” blades, and offers long service life, something millions of consumers have come to expect from the Panasonic brand.
Furthermore, it is equipped with a single 10-watt dimmable LED chip panel, and comes with a 3” adapter to install it into 4″ and 6” ducts. In the box, you also get a Flex-Z bracket for greater flexibility in positioning the fan where you like it, and easy installation. The Panasonic Whisperfit EZ Retrofit fan is backed by a three-year warranty against any manufacturer defects.
Pros:
- Adjustable airflow between 80 CFM and 110 CFM
- Low profile design fits 2 x 6 construction
- Energy Star Certified
- Low noise at .3 cones
- 10-watt dimmable LED chip panel
Cons:
- Limited to 1 color option
2. Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan and Light
The Broan-NuTone 678 bathroom exhaust fan, and light combo is in a league of its own with its award worthy design, complete with its white polymeric grille that compliments virtually any bathroom décor. It is designed to provide ventilation for rooms up to 45 square feet, making it a great choice for small to medium sized bathrooms.
It can accommodate a bright 100-watt bulb, which is shielded with a shatter-proof light-diffusing lens to prevent any damage. Adding to this, the Broan-NuTone 678 bathroom fan is UL certified for safe use over bathtubs and showers when connected to a GFCI-protected branch circuit.
With regards to rating, this exhaust fan by Broan-NuTone is powered by a permanently lubricated motor for efficient and powerful operation. The grill of the Broan-NuTone 678 exhaust fan measures 10-5/8 inches long and 11-1/8 inches wide, whereas the housing measures 8 inches in length, 8-1/4 inches wide, and 5-3/4 inches tall.
In terms of construction, the Broan-NuTone 678 exhaust fan scores high with its rugged 26-gauge galvanized steel body, so you can rest assured it will last you for several years to come. It is designed to fit 4-inch ducts, and is extremely quite when powered on at just 2.5 sones.
The Broan-NuTone 678 ventilation light is easy to install, and comes with polymeric duct connectors with tapered sleeves, and keyhole mounting brackets. It is backed by a 1-year warranty against any manufacturer defects.
Pros:
- 45 square feet area coverage
- UL certified
- Permanently lubricated motor
- Suited for 100-watt bulb
- White polymeric grille
- Shatter-proof light diffusing lens
- 1-yer manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- Bulb not included
3. Hunter 81030 Halcyon Bathroom Exhaust Fan
The Hunter 81030 Halcyon bathroom exhaust fan is our #3 pick on this list of best bathroom fans with light, most notably for its contemporary cast-chrome design, topped with swirled marble glass. Further, it boasts an ultra-quiet operation at just 2.5 sones, and an excellent 90 CFM output.
This exhaust fan by Hunter Home Comfort measures just over 16 inches when assembled, making it an appealing addition for all types of homes. It is especially designed to remove excess moisture and humidity, which it circulates the air and fights odors. Adding to this, the Halcyon exhaust fan is both ETL and HVI certified, and accommodates 2x A15 60-Watt bulbs.
With regards to installation, the motor and light fixtures of the Hunter 81030 Halcyon bathroom exhaust fan can be connected with the same wire or separately, and offers a 4-inch duct diameter. The box includes all the parts needed for installation, so you set it up as soon as it arrives.
The Hunter 81030 Halcyon flush mount bathroom exhaust fan is easy to clean by simply removing the glass cover. It is backed by a 5-year warranty against any manufacturer defects, making it a great investment for your home.
Pros:
- 90 CFM
- Contemporary cast-chrome design with marble glass
- Measures 16 inches when assembled
- Ultra-quiet operation at 2.5 sones
- 4-inch duct diameter
- 2 bulb slots
- 5-year warranty
Cons:
- Limited to 1 color option
- Bulbs not included
4. Tatsumaki LD-120 Electric Bathroom Fan with Light
For a bathroom fan with light that offers the best of both worlds’ i.e. top notch performance and durability, you really can’t go wrong with the Tatsumaki LD-120 model. It is a great choice for both small, medium homes, apartments and shared housing, and is designed to improve ventilation, and considerably reduce condensation.
Further, it boasts a 120 CFM airflow capacity, and spins at 1007 RPM to help keep your bathroom drier, cleaner, and mold free. The Tatsumaki LD-120 bathroom fan with light is an ideal choice for spaces measuring 120 square feet, and operates extremely quietly at just 1.2 sones.
This bathroom suction fan is backed by a robust 45 watts power, and comes with a standard housing, which can be installed between most ceiling joists. With regards to installation, the Tatsumaki LD-120 bathroom fan with light comes factory equipped with a double hanging bar system, making it easy to install in your preferred position.
It is crafted from premium materials, and is ETL listed, resulting in great longevity. The integrated 6 watt LED light panel is designed to provide soft illumination in your bathroom space, while the ventilation fan is in use. The Tatsumaki LD-120 bathroom fan light combo comes with separate components, a 4 inch vent connector, and is backed by a 2-year manufacturer warranty.
Pros:
- Extremely quiet at 1.2 sones
- 120 CFM airflow capacity
- Great ventilation for up to 120 square feet
- Double hanging bar system and 6 watt LED panel
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- Decorative grate may not hang well if installed on the wall
5. Delta BreezRadiance RAD80L Bathroom Fan with Light
The Delta Group is a leading name in the power and thermal management segment, and the BreezRadiance RAD80L bathroom fan with light is yet another hit addition to the company’s portfolio of products. Even though it rings in with a lower price tag compared with other models in its segment, it offers fan, light, heater, and thermostat functionality.
It offers unsurpassed reliability and efficiency, thanks to its DC brushless motor, and is factory equipped with a 1300 watt heating element with thermostat, allowing you to maintain consistent temperature in your bathroom. The BreezRadiance RAD80L bathroom fan is made from galvanized steel, making it corrosion resistant, and a great performer in this segment.
In terms of safety, the BreezRadiance RAD80L bathroom fan doesn’t disappoint with its metal guard that prevents contact with the heating wire. Adding to this, the heating module of the BreezRadiance RAD80L fan features a thermal cutoff system, which adds to its overall safety quotient.
The BreezRadiance RAD80L bathroom fan with light runs quietly in the backdrop at 1,3 sones, and offers an 80 CFM airflow capacity. It is energy efficient as well, given its 10.5 watt power consumption, and features a 4 inch duct diameter.
The BreezRadiance RAD80L is Energy Star and HVI certified, and can accommodate a 26-watt CFL lamp. It comes with a CFL lamp, and is backed by a 3-year warranty against any manufacturer defects.
Pros:
- 1300 watt heating element
- DC brushless motor
- Fan, light, heater, and thermostat functionality
- Thermal cutoff system and metal shield to prevent contact with wire
- Runs quietly at 1.3 sones
- 4” duct diameter
- 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- 26W SBCFL bulb can be expensive to replace
6. Tosca 7117-02-BN Bathroom Fan Integrated LED Light
The Tosca 7117-02-BN bathroom fan is designed to remove moisture, and humidity from your bathroom, and does this at not more than an impressive 1.1 sones. It showcases a modern design with its brushed nickel grill, making it a great match for your existing bathroom finishes.
But that’s all, the Tosca 7117-02-BN bathroom light is also fitted with a galvanized steel housing, which provides excellent corrosion and moisture resistance. The Tosca 7117-02-BN doesn’t just look good, it has a lot going on for it under its hood, starting with its onboard powerful AC motor, which is engineered to provide continuous operation.
It is an ideal fit for spaces that measure up to 80 square feet, which equates to small to large size bathrooms. When it comes to installation, the Tosca 7117-02-BN bathroom fan can replace your existing bathroom fan, without having to cut the standard 7.5 in. x 7.25 inch opening.
The Tosca 7117-02-BN bathroom fan offers great versatility in that it can be installed in several areas of your home dens, laundry rooms, exercise rooms, or any other spaces that are susceptible to moisture, and mold growth. It is integrated with an energy efficient and dimmable LED light, so can set the right light level during the day or night.
Pros:
- 1 sones and 80 CFM
- Brushed nickel grill, and galvanized steel housing
- Dimmable 4000K cool white LED light
- AC motor provides continuous operation
- No-cut design
Cons:
- Can be a bit louder than 1.1 sones
7. Homewerks Worldwide Bathroom Fan Integrated LED Light
The Homewerks Worldwide bathroom fan with light can be ordered in a choice of two appealing finishes – brushed nickel and white, and offers outstanding and quiet performance at just 1.1 sones. It effectively eliminates moisture and humidity in spaces at measure up to 80 square feet, and is easy to install with its no-cut design.
Additionally, it showcases great build quality with its galvanized steel construction, and its rounded modern shape. It is also corrosion resistant, so it can withstand a fair bit of damage caused by oxidizations or other chemical reactions.
The Homewerks Worldwide bathroom fan with light is also s a great choice if you’re looking to remove odor emitted from harsh chemicals, and is equipped with a 4000K, 16-watt cool white light. This light features a dimmable option, which makes it easy to adjust the desired level of brightness for your space.
Unlike cheap bathroom fans with lights, the Homewerks Worldwide model is powered by an AC motor, which has been tested to run for a whopping 50,000 hours. Furthermore, it is an ideal addition for all types of rooms including laundry rooms, and home gyms, and any other spaces that lack good ventilation.
The Homewerks Worldwide bathroom fan is HVI and ETL certified, and adheres to ASHRAE 62.2 local and whole building operation standards. It comes with all you need for the installation process including the fan housing, grille and light, duct connector, and is backed by a limited 5-year warranty against nay manufacturer defects.
Pros:
- 2 finishes available
- HVI and ETL certified
- Great for 80 square feet spaces
- 4000K, 16-watt cool white light
- Corrosion resistant and no-cut design
- 1 sones and light dimmable option
Cons:
- Only 2 color finishes available
8. Panasonic FV-0510VSL1 WhisperValue
The FV-0510VSL1 WhisperValue bathroom fan with light is yet another hit from the Panasonic hangar, and as its name would suggest does nothing more than whisper at less than .3 sones. It is designed to remove large volumes of air, without using much energy resulting in less overheating, and prevents motor failure.
It can be fitted with 4-inch oval shaped ducts, and comes with an L-shaped bracket to simplify the installation process. The Panasonic FV-0510VSL1 WhisperValue bathroom fan with light is Energy Star certified, and complies with ASHRAE 62.2 standards, making it a safe choice for your home.
It is equipped with a Pick-A-Flow selector, which allows you to adjust the airflow between 50, 80 or 100 CFM, and is powered by revolutionary ECM motor with SmartFlow optimum CFM technology. The package includes the ventilation fan unit, flexi-fast bracket, four self-drilling screws, installation guide, and warranty information.
The FV-0510VSL1 WhisperValue bathroom fan comes with a 10-watt dimmable LED chip panel for energy efficient illumination, and is backed by a 6-year manufacturer warranty on its ECM motor, 3-years on parts, and 5-years on the LED light panel.
Pros:
- Extremely quiet at .3 sones
- ECM motor with SmartFlow optimum CFM technology
- Removes large volumes of air, without using much technology
- Adjustable airflow between 50, 80 or 100 CFM
- Max 6-year warranty
Cons:
- Only available in while color
9. KAZE APPLIANCE Ultra Quiet Bathroom Exhaust Fan with LED Light
The KAZE Appliance Ultra Quiet bathroom fan is just that – a powerful bathroom fan that does more than what it’s supposed to do at just 0.03 sones. This redesigned model is designed to ventilate bathrooms that measure up to 120 square feet, and is fitted with a six-inch duct adapter that further improves its reliability and stability.
It boasts a robust build complete with high quality components, and is equipped with permanently lubricated motors, which provide excellent and continuous operation. Adding to this, the KAZE Appliance Ultra Quiet bathroom fan features a unique electrical configuration, which allows it to operate at low temperatures, resulting in long service life of the motor and bearings.
It also features a redesigned resin housing, which prevents rusting and offers better operational stability. The grill of the fan measures 13 inches x 14 inches, and attaches directly to the housing via torsion springs. The KAZE Appliance Ultra Quiet bathroom fan boasts a 120 CFM air delivery rate, making it a great choice for several different spaces in your home including laundry rooms.
The KAZE Appliance Ultra Quiet bathroom fan is Home Ventilating Institute (HVI), ETL-CETL, and ENERGY STAR certified, and comes with heavy-duty triple point mounting brackets, which are adjustable up to 24-inch joist centers for easy installation. It accepts two lights – 11-watt LED light (2700K color temperature) and a 2-watt LED night light that offers an astounding 30,000 hours service life.
Pros:
- Super quiet of 0.3 sones
- 120 CFM air flow capacity
- 12W main light, 2W night light
- High quality components, and lubricated motors
- Home Ventilating Institute (HVI), ETL-CETL, and ENERGY STAR certified
Cons:
- Resizing existing ceiling opening may be required if housing is smaller
10. Akicon Ultra Quiet Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light and Nightlight
The Akicon Ultra Quiet bathroom fan comes in at the #10 position on this list of best bathroom fans with lights for its ultra-quiet design at just 1.5 sones. It is designed to work in up to 100 square feet areas, making it a great choice for small to large size bathrooms. Further, the Akicon bathroom fan with light is equipped with 9″ x 9″ x 7.7″ stylish steel plate housing, topped with a 15.3″ x 15.3″ steel pan grille mated with a frosted lens cover.
It is propelled by a high quality ball bearing motor that offers great longevity, and attached to a blower wheel that’s made from polypropylene. The Akicon bathroom fan with light is GFCI. HVI certified, and is cUL for over tub and shower installation. It offers a 110 CFM airflow capacity, and features two light sockets – one for a 13 watt light, and another to accommodate a E12 night light.
The Akicon bathroom light with fan boasts a 15,000 hours service life, owing to its onsite 100 percent copper motor. Adding to this, it compliments your overall existing bathroom décor, and is backed by a three-year warranty against any manufacturer defects.
Pros:
- Ideal for spaces up to 100 square feet
- Works quietly at 1.5 sones
- High quality ball bearing motor
- 13 watt light and E12 night light
- 15,000 hours service life, and 3-year manufacturer warranty
Cons:
- Limited to 1 color option
Conclusion:
Buying the best bathroom fan with light can be a tricky a tricky affair, given the plethora of options available. But the 10 models on this list come with the right set of features, and provide powerful ventilation for your bathroom, and other areas of your home. Furthermore, each light offers great illumination, and some models can be fitted with two LED lights including a night light.
Best Bathroom Fan and Light Buying Guide
Bathroom fans with lights can be big ticket purchases or even if you buy a cheap bathroom exhaust fan, you should consider the following factors to ensure it fits right into your space.
Bathroom fan with light sizing – it is important to pay close attention to the size of the bathroom fan to get the right amount of ventilation in the space. Bathroom and light exhaust fan models are rates by their ability to move air per cubic feet aka air flow capacity rated in CFMs.
This however doesn’t imply that less powerful and smaller bathroom fans that generate less CFMs are of inferior quality, but probably a better fit for apartment size spaces. For example, the best apartment bathroom fan with light with at least 54 CFM is a great fit for areas that measure 6 feet wide and 9 feet long.
HVI rating – Many bathroom fan models are HVI (Home Ventilation Institute) rated, meaning they adhere to stringent performance and efficiency standards for home ventilation products. HVI also recommends that you add approximately 50 CFM to every toilet and shower or toilet and bath combination.
Light – this is perhaps the main highlight of this range of fans, and provide a world of convenience, because it saves you from installing two separate fixtures. The light of the bathroom fan can serve as supplementary lighting to your existing bathroom light setup, and or can be used as a sole source of lighting.
Some of the best home bathroom fan with light models even come with two sockets – one to house a regular bulb, and other from a nightlight, and a few models come with dimmable options and/or the ability to adjust the right level of illumination for daylight and nighttime hours. If you’d like to have heater functionality as well, check the bathroom fans with light and heater options on this list.
Noise level – poor quality bathroom fans can be extremely loud, which can detract from the peaceful “ME” time you’d hoped for. When you’re on the shopping trail for the best bathroom fan with light, it is a good idea to consider the level of noise it emits, and select a quieter model.
The sound level of a bathroom fan is represented by sones, where one sone typically equates to soft hum of a refrigerator in a quiet kitchen. With regards to noise level, bathroom fans with light that have a sone rating of two and under run extremely quietly, whereas models rated with three or more sones generate more noise.
Efficiency – regardless of appliance you’re buying, one of the first things you should check is its efficiency, which is basically the amount of energy they use. Energy Star rated bathroom fans use up to 70 percent less energy when compared to non-Energy Star rated models, so the higher the rating, the more cost efficient a respective model will be to run.
Warranty – leading bathroom fan with light models come with some type of manufacturer warranty/guarantee. If not, you can always read bathroom fan with light reviews to get great insight into the overall performance of the product.
Bathroom Fan with Light FAQ’s
Q: How long should you leave a bathroom fan with light on for?
Answer: Experts recommend that you leave your bathroom fan for at least 20 minutes after you get out of the shower. This 20-minute time limit is enough to get rid of the humidity in the space.
Q: Can you put bathroom fan with light in a shower?
Answer: The UL listing of a bathroom fan model lets you know whether it can be installed over a tub or shower. Even though there are several models that are UL listed, it is best to place near the bathing area and not right above the shower to prevent damage the bathroom fan with light.
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